A commentary on “Knowledge transfer between Russian and Western firms: whose absorptive capacity is in question?” by Snejina Michailova and Irina Jormanainen

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a response to the viewpoint by Michailova and Jormanainen under the title “Knowledge transfer between Russian and Western firms: whose absorptive capacity is in question?” (CPoIB, Vol. 7 No. 3).

Design/methodology/approach

The author reflects on her own business experience through the lens of the key terms used in the viewpoint.

Findings

Based on what the author has experienced in her interaction with Western business partners, she concludes that knowledge transfer needs to be perceived and understood as a two‐way learning process.

Practical implications

Many of the business projects conducted jointly by Russians and Westerners would not have failed if knowledge transfer is understood and practised as a learning process that goes both ways, from Westerners to Russians and vice versa.

Originality/value

The commentary provides the author's view as a practitioner who is involved in numerous business projects with Westerners. Such a view is of value, it is hoped, to researchers who study the themes of knowledge transfer and absorptive capacity.

Citation

Shabrova, V. (2011), "A commentary on “Knowledge transfer between Russian and Western firms: whose absorptive capacity is in question?” by Snejina Michailova and Irina Jormanainen", Critical Perspectives on International Business, Vol. 7 No. 4, pp. 364-366. https://doi.org/10.1108/17422041111180809